We Hear: BMW M2 on Track for Early 2016 Launch

The true successor to the beloved BMW 1 Series M Coupe is on the way. According to the rumor mill, the BMW M2 is set to take the 2014 BMW M235i up a notch, with up to 375 hp on tap when it goes into production in the middle of next year.

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The BMW M2, likely to be a 2016 model, will allegedly be powered by BMW's potent N55 3.0-liter turbocharged I-6, reports BMW forum 2addicts.com. With that engine already making 320 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque in the 2014 M235 i, the M2 will get a significant power boost, producing between 365-375 hp. BMW reportedly considered the 228i's 2.0-liter turbo-four for M2 duty, but decided the turbo I-6 would be a better fit for the M car.

Codenamed F87, the BMW M2 will likely sport an upgraded suspension over the M235i, with stickier tires, a quicker steering rack, and visual upgrades to match the performance aspirations of the car. The M2 will likely be available with a six-speed manual transmission, with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, courtesy of the new 2015 BMW M3 and M4, a strong possibility as well.

Motor Trend's resident racer Randy Pobst recently called the M235i "the best BMW [he's] driven in 10 years," which sets the bar pretty high for the genuine M Division-tuned car.

Expect the BMW M2 to make its debut late this year and go into production by the middle of next year. Europe will likely get the new M car first, with the M2 hitting the U.S. in early 2016.